Today, we stand at a critical juncture. Exactly one year ago, our Scottish Parliament declared a housing emergency, acknowledging the urgent need for transformative action to stem rising homelessness and growing inequality that goes hand in hand with an acute housing shortage.

Yet, as we reflect on the past 12 months, we are compelled to state unequivocally: not enough has been done. The measures taken have been insufficient, the ambition too modest and the urgency lacking.

But bold steps can turn the tide. Because this moment is not just a commemoration - it is a crossroads. In one year’s time, Scotland will head to the polls to elect a new Parliament, shaping the course of our future. The decisions made now, and the policies proposed by all political parties, will determine whether we rise to the occasion or fall short once again. 

Everyone Home, a collective of organisations united in purpose, calls for bold, systemic change to meet the scale of the housing challenges before us. We call for far bigger thinking and far braver action from all political parties to transform Scotland into a place where everyone has a home.

More than anything – political parties need to show us how those plans will be funded and resourced. As the David Hume Institute reported this week – housing costs are a growing source of income and wealth inequality in Scotland, while investment in housing is a powerful driver of inclusive and sustainable growth. 

We accept that tax changes may be required to invest in ensuring a safe and suitable home for everyone to build and live their lives. Which political parties in Scotland will stand with us?

The time for half-measures has passed. We call on all political leaders to listen to the evidence, heed the voices of communities and engage with the solutions already proposed by experts, grassroots movements and people directly affected by the housing emergency. The next 12 months must be a period of unprecedented ambition, collaboration and action to lay the foundations for more homes in Scotland.

Soon, as a collective, we will publish our list of key priorities for the next government. We pledge to hold leaders accountable, amplify the demands of those most affected and advocate for the true scale of change required. We urge everyone to join us in expecting more from those who seek to represent us. The election ahead is not just a vote - it is a chance to redefine our priorities about the Scotland we want to live in.

• Everyone Home represents a collective of nearly 40 third and academic sector organisations with a focus on housing and homelessness in Scotland.